Throughout my high school career, I have thrived in collaborative environments, finding strength in uplifting others both in my sport and my classes. As a cheerleader, my role as a base has been to support others and keep them safe. While basing is physically demanding, the most challenging aspect isn’t the lifting itself but the mental weight of knowing that I am the one standing between my flyer and potential injury. This sense of responsibility is something I carry with me and will continue to bring into my future work environments. In my junior year of high school, I entered the Animation program at Eastern Washington University. Though animation and cheerleading have virtually nothing in common, they both involve people with different strengths and weaknesses working together to achieve a common goal. In cheerleading, I have learned the importance of reliability and trust, qualities that are just as crucial in a collaborative creative environment like animation. My dream job is to work at Disney Animation Studios, where I hope to continue being a supportive and uplifting force who listens to and considers others’ ideas. I aim to be someone my colleagues can trust with their creativity and plans, just as my teammates trust me with their safety on the mat. The positivity and reliability that cheerleading has instilled in me are qualities I will carry with me into the workforce, enabling me to contribute effectively to any team and helping us achieve our shared goals. In both cheerleading and animation, success is about more than just individual talent; it’s about how well you can work with others to bring out the best in everyone. The collaborative spirit I’ve developed in high school will be a cornerstone of my approach in my future career, ensuring that I am not just a teammate but a leader who others can rely on.

My passion for computer animation stems from a deep desire to positively influence the next generation of children. In an era where technology is rapidly advancing, it’s easy to focus on the negative impacts of media. However, my goal is to harness this technology to teach children the importance of respect, empathy, and kindness. Through my degree in computer animation, I aspire to work on animated movies that not only entertain but also inspire and educate. I want to create stories that help children develop a strong moral framework, guiding them to become compassionate and understanding individuals. The media children consume plays a significant role in their upbringing, often rivaling the influence of their parents. In the past, a child’s world was limited to the small circle of people they knew, but today’s children, with internet access, are exposed to countless individuals and ideas. Unfortunately, this exposure can lead to negative behaviors, such as online hate, which is often perpetuated by children who do not fully understand the consequences of their actions. I believe that the media we create can change this. Animated movies have the unique ability to transport viewers into different stories and experiences, fostering empathy and understanding. When a child can empathize with characters and feel understood through the media they consume, they are more likely to stand strong against bullying and less likely to harm others. As a cheerleading captain and a participant in numerous community events organized by my school, I have had the opportunity to interact with many children. One of my favorite ways to engage with shy children is by asking them about their favorite hobbies and movies. This simple question often allows me to connect them with other children who share similar interests at that same event, helping them feel less isolated and more understood. In a digital world where children are constantly bombarded with media, these connections can make a significant difference in their lives. As I pursue my degree and career in computer animation, I am driven by the desire to connect children through their common interests and experiences, rather than allowing them to be divided by their differences. I also recognize the importance of keeping children safe, both in-person and online. Through my work and community involvement, I aim to create a safer, more empathetic world for the next generation. Financial assistance will allow me to continue my education and ultimately contribute to a future where children can grow up in a world where they are respected, understood, and safe.

Being the best version of yourself to me means that someone is able to understand themselves as well as others and have strong morals with passion to spare. My love of visual storytelling and the impact it has on people is what led me to pursue a career in animation. Disney and Pixar movies shaped my childhood and have continued to offer me comfort well into my late teenage years. Movies allow children to nurture their passions and navigate their formative years. They provide a way for children to learn life lessons in a simple yet powerful manner that stays with them for a long time. I learned about the value of love and grief through films like *Up* and *Inside Out*, and about the importance of our passions from *Soul* and *Ratatouille*. My goal in my career is to create movies that make children feel understood and help them learn about themselves. I want to encourage them to understand and respect others, and I hope they will one day look back fondly at the media they grew up with. I believe animated movies have the unique quality of capturing a childlike wonder while exploring an unlimited range of topics. There’s a reason why there is an animated show for every age group: animation allows people to escape while still keeping things "real." Strong media can give a child a strong structure as they grow up and can encourage them to follow their own passions. A child who grows up on nothing but their parents lessons cannot be well rounded as they only have gotten one perspective. Their world view is therefor narrow and they are unable to understand those who don't have the same background as themselves. On the other hand. A child that grows up with an array of movies with diverse protagonists can fully learn about how to understand themselves and respect others. My passion to help children in hopes they will be there best self is what has driven me through my road blocks along the way. My personal ambition is to work as a storyboard artist and character animator at Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California. I hope to help the next generation of children learn about the world around them through a colorful lens. The way a child grows up is pivotal to how they become the best version of themselves. By giving a child strong roots through media to learn from as they grow up, is how I hope to make a change through my passion

Understanding is a concept that defies a one-size-fits-all definition. One of the most remarkable aspects of being human is our diverse perspectives and experiences, which shape our beliefs, choices, and understanding in unique ways. No two people interpret or comprehend the world in exactly the same manner. A person's ability to understand themselves plays a crucial role in how they perceive and make sense of the universe as a whole. For me, this understanding is not rooted in religion or karma, but in trust. My philosophy of life centers around trust. I believe that when we do our best, things have a way of working out, even if the outcome is not what we initially expected. There is always some form of resolution between ourselves and any given situation. This, to me, is not a coincidence; it is the natural order of life. I have always held the believe that if I work hard and strive to be a good person, everything will eventually fall into place. My understanding of the universe doesn't involve rigid rules or regulations, but rather a simple, unwavering trust in its processes. For example, consider the trust we place in a friend who has consistently followed through on plans to meet up. We don’t create a long list of backup plans in case they cancel; instead, we trust them because they have never let us down before. In much the same way, I trust the universe. I believe that by living with integrity and putting forth my best effort, I can trust that the universe will guide things to a satisfactory resolution. This is not to say that I dismiss or devalue other ways of understanding the universe. I respect that everyone has their own unique perspective, whether it be rooted in religion, karma, or another philosophy. However, I do believe that the way we view the universe is deeply reflective of how we view ourselves. My trust in the universe is, at its core, a reflection of the trust I have in myself and my ability to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and optimism. This trust gives me the confidence to move forward, knowing that, in the end, things will work out as they are meant to. Understanding how you perceive the universe is important as many are blind to understanding themselves. By connecting yourself to your beliefs and seeing them not as your mind but as an extension of yourself will lead you to your best version.

My first thought would be to bring together Steve, Dustin, and Robin. These three characters complement each other through their differences, creating a powerful trio strong enough to fight any evil. The most important aspect of a trio is that their strengths do not match. This is why diversity in age and gender benefits this group. Steve provides bravery and physical strength, Robin contributes wit and adaptability, and Dustin brings specific plans that guide the team to victory. Steve Harrington is known for his hand-to-hand skills (and his ability to take a lot of hits). Whether wielding his nail bat or using his fists, he faces every fight with no fear. His perseverance and bravery make him a valuable asset to the team. Robin, as the grounded person of the group, can outsmart anyone. Her ability to stay calm amidst chaos allows her to adapt to any situation. She has always been able to talk her way out of seemingly impossible scenarios, thanks to her fluency in multiple languages. From Russian spies to supernatural beings, Robin always finds a way to emerge unscathed. Dustin, the kid of the group, is known for his upbeat attitude and optimism. He not only acts as the cheerleader of the group, but his specific plans also bring everyone onto the same page. While he may not have a physical upper hand, his calculated and precise strategies allow the less intellectual characters to carry out his plans effectively. This unlikely group that formed during Season 3 has always been my favorite trio to watch. The way these three differ and compare makes them an unstoppable team. Through Steve’s strength, Robin’s wit, and Dustin’s knowledge, this group can accomplish anything.

Pam Beesley has always been my favorite character on The Office, offering a sense of comfort and inspiration throughout the series. Initially introduced as the "girl next door" love interest, Pam’s character arc is one of the most compelling in the show. She transforms from a shy receptionist into a confident saleswoman, demonstrating the importance self-discovery despite the fear of out growing your current circumstances. Pam represents the heart of Dunder Mifflin, connecting with every unique personality in the office, showcasing her ability to befriend and understand others. This trait emphasizes her role as more than just a receptionist—she is the emotional core of the company. Pam’s journey is particularly empowering because she is portrayed as an "average" woman who is, in reality, anything but average. Her creative pursuits in graphic design, despite initial setbacks, highlight her determination to follow her passions rather than settling for the safe, comfortable path. This aspect of her character has deeply inspired me to pursue my own passions, even when the safer option seems tempting. Part of the reason I am perusing a degree in arts myself is because of the remodels I had in media, like Pam Beesley. In a world where pretty women are often expected to settle or play supporting roles, Pam Beesley stands out as a role model. She shows that it's possible to be both kind and ambitious, proving that women can be more than just their male counterparts. Her journey is a testament to the power of embracing one’s true potential and striving for more, no matter how unconventional the journey may seem.

Olivia Rodrigo is an artist who captures the glam and struggles of being a teenage girl. Her album GUTS covers a wide range of emotions and experiences that resonate deeply with anyone who has been a teenager. For me, Olivia Rodrigo is an artist I turn to when I feel burnt out and need someone I can relate to. One lyric from GUTS that resonates particularly with my teenage experience is from the song "Teenage Dream": "Got your whole life ahead of you, you're only nineteen, but I fear that they already got all the best parts of me." This line encapsulates my teenage experience as someone who has grown up with the pressure of being perfect. Throughout high school, I have been seemingly "perfect." I’ve maintained straight A's, balanced two jobs, participated in two sports, and attended two schools simultaneously. On the surface, it appears that I have it all together. However, I fear that despite all I’ve accomplished, I might make a mistake that could cost me my future. This fear is irrational, yet it is always in the back of my mind. The pressure to be perfect has always weighed heavily on me, and the lyric from "Teenage Dream" perfectly sums up the anxiety that comes with it. The line "Got your whole life ahead of you, you're only nineteen" speaks to the expectation that, as young people, we have limitless potential and opportunities ahead of us. Yet, the following line—"But I fear that they already got all the best parts of me"—highlights a common fear among high achievers: the fear that we’ve peaked too soon, that our best days are already behind us. As a perfectionist, having achieved so much during my teenage years, I sometimes worry that I’ve set the bar too high for myself and that I won’t be able to continue improving. Have I already given the world the best parts of myself? Is there anything left to strive for? My teenage experience has been marked by a relentless focus on the future. While others may have spent their teenage years on fun nights out, mine have been spent preparing for what lies ahead. Every decision I’ve made has been with the future in mind, from the classes I’ve taken to the extracurricular activities I’ve participated in. This forward-thinking mentality has shaped my adolescence, but it has also come at a cost. The pressure to succeed has often left me feeling burnt out, and Olivia Rodrigo’s music has been a source of comfort during those moments. In "Teenage Dream," Rodrigo captures the duality of adolescence: the excitement of having your whole life ahead of you, and the fear that you’ve already given all you have to offer. This lyric resonates with me because it mirrors my own fears and anxieties as I navigate the transition from high school to adulthood. It serves as a reminder that, while the pressure to be perfect can be overwhelming, it’s important to recognize that life is a journey with many chapters yet to be written. Olivia Rodrigos youthful success encourages me to keep going and moving towards my goals, even when I feel burnt out.

Throughout my high school career, I have thrived in collaborative communities, finding strength in uplifting others both in my sport and my classes. As a cheerleader, my role as a base has been to support others and keep them safe. While basing is physically demanding, the most challenging aspect isn’t the lifting itself but the mental weight of knowing that I am the one standing between my flyer and potential injury. This sense of responsibility is something I carry with me and will continue to bring into my future work environments. In my junior year of high school, I entered the Animation program at Eastern Washington University. Though animation and cheerleading have virtually nothing in common, they both involve people with different strengths and weaknesses working together to achieve a common goal. In cheerleading, I learned the importance of reliability and trust, qualities that are just as crucial in a collaborative creative environment like animation. Whether I’m on the mat or at the drawing board, I’ve come to understand that the success of the team depends on each member playing their part with care and dedication. My dream job is to work at Disney Animation Studios, where I hope to continue being a supportive and uplifting force who listens to and considers others’ ideas. I aim to be someone my colleagues can trust with their creativity and plans, just as my teammates trust me with their safety on the mat. The positivity and reliability that cheerleading has instilled in me are qualities I will carry with me into the workforce, enabling me to contribute effectively to any team and helping us achieve our shared goals. As someone who did not grow up in a specific community, I had to find places where I could belong. Not belonging to a religion or a rural, tight-knit community does not mean you can’t find like-minded individuals, and I am thankful my passions led me to the communities I belong to today. These communities, whether on the cheerleading squad or in the animation studio, have given me a sense of belonging and purpose. They’ve shown me that community is not defined by geography or tradition but by shared goals and mutual support. In both cheerleading and animation, success is about more than just individual talent; it’s about how well you can work with others to bring out the best in everyone. The collaborative spirit I’ve developed in high school will be a cornerstone of my approach in my future career, ensuring that I am not just a teammate but a leader whom others can rely on. Although I may not belong to a rural community, the selective communities I am part of are so close to me that they feel like home. The sense of belonging and support I’ve found in these groups has shaped me into a person who values teamwork, trust, and the power of collaboration—qualities I am eager to bring to my future career.

My biggest impact on my family has been my good grades and plans to attend college. My family is my community, we are a group of hard working determined people, I however am much more privileged than many of them have been in the past. from my grandmothers marrying before graduating highschool, to my grandfathers and father working on farms trying to support their parents and siblings enough to get by, no one has been able to go to college. I am the first all A's student in my family, first AP student, And first generation college student. while on surface level my motivation has always been my future, my intentions has always been on my past. I feel the weight of all the wasted potential of my family on my shoulders and I want nothing more than to reach my own full potential and share my accomplishments with them. With this scholarship my big goals can become a little more realistic. I have done the work to get me to where I am so far with full independence and now that I am ready for the next chapter of my life it is time for me to do what I have found more difficult than any of my good grades. Asking for help. The pride in my family has always been what stopped us from reaching our full potential. I intend to make a difference in my family line through my ability to ask and earn help from others. this scholarship is my way of asking for assistance to get me to where I need to go, and make my family proud. No one has forced me to be that change in my family, my parents only wish since I was young was just that I would go to college. they never needed me to extraordinary, or an amazing student, they just wanted me to have opportunities that they didn't. I have already succeeded in their eyes but I want to get as far as I can and have them be as proud as possible, not just of me, but of themselves. This scholarship is my way of reaching my full potential.

My love of visual storytelling and the impact it has on people is what led me to pursue a career in animation. Disney and Pixar movies shaped my childhood and have continued to offer me comfort well into my late teenage years. Movies allow children to nurture their passions and navigate their formative years. They provide a way for children to learn life lessons in a simple yet powerful manner that stays with them for a long time. I learned about the value of love and grief through films like Up and Inside Out, and about the importance of our passions from Soul and Ratatouille. My goal in my career is to create movies that make children feel understood and help them learn about themselves. I want to encourage them to understand and respect others, and I hope they will one day look back fondly at the media they grew up with. I believe animated movies have the unique quality of capturing a childlike wonder while exploring an unlimited range of topics. There’s a reason why there is an animated show for every age group: animation allows people to escape while still keeping things "real." My personal ambition is to work as a storyboard artist and character animator at Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California, and help the next generation of children learn about the world around them through a colorful lens.

Billie Eilish, to many teenagers, is so much more than just an artist. As a person, she is comforting, and her honest music has helped me navigate the challenges of being a teenager since I was thirteen. As a teenager who struggled with my mental health, Billie Eilish's music was there to understand me when no one else could. As I grew up, so did her music. Now, her newer, upbeat tracks help me get through hours of homework, and her youthful success motivates me to reach my own goals. Billie Eilish is often credited for her songs that comfort struggling teenagers. But the songs that impact me today are those from her newer albums. My favorite song by Billie is "My Future." I love the jazzy sound mixed with the motivational message, which lifts me up every time I listen. In a world filled with love songs, "My Future" offers a comforting concept: the only person you really need is yourself. The focus on your future, rather than on trivial people and habits, is something I will always appreciate in Billie’s music. The concept of self-love is further explored in "Getting Older." While "My Future" elevates my excitement about where I’m going in life, "Getting Older" comforts me through the feelings of anxiety surrounding growing up and the impermanence of life. My overall favorite song has always been "Come Out and Play," one of the first Billie Eilish songs I ever listened to on my iPod shuffle during middle school. The calm melody and the feeling it gives me are perfect for long study nights in the fall and winter. The lyrics might seem simple at first, but to me, they carry much deeper meaning. Lines like "You see the piece of paper / Could be a little greater / Show me what you could make her / You'll never know until you try it" encourage me to follow my passion for narrative storytelling through animation. Other lyrics like "And I know it makes you nervous / But I promise you, it's worth it" inspired me to pursue my unique career path and let go of my fear of failure. Just because a career path is uncommon doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Billie Eilish is a perfect example of that. Her emotional departure from typical media and her mainstream success, even when discussing unconventional topics, show her ability to follow her passions rather than chase money. In conclusion, Billie Eilish’s music has been a constant source of comfort and inspiration throughout my teenage years. Her evolution as an artist mirrors my own growth, and her messages of self-love, independence, and perseverance resonate with me deeply. Billie Eilish is more than just an artist to me—she is a guide, helping me navigate the complexities of life and reminding me to stay true to myself.

As a 4.0 student, I have been asked many times how I achieve my marks. People are usually surprised when I explain that it's not natural smarts that got me through my honors, AP, and college-level courses. Growing up in a non-traditional educational environment, I understand the value of independence when it comes to learning. To give context, I was enrolled in my local Montessori program from kindergarten through junior high. My parents chose this program over traditional public schooling because they recognized my creativity and independence and wanted to nurture these qualities rather than risk them being stifled. Montessori differs from public school in that it values each child's unique learning patterns and strengths rather than just teaching what works best for the majority. The Montessori system operates on a three-year structure, where a class of 30 students, for example, in lower elementary, might include 10 first graders, 10 second graders, and 10 third graders. This creates strong bonds between teachers and students, especially considering that you stay in one class all day with one teacher who is familiar with every subject. A typical day as a Montessori student includes short lessons for core subjects like long division or photosynthesis. Once a student demonstrates proficiency in a skill, they can move on to learn anything that interests them. As long as they can show the knowledge they've acquired, they have the freedom to explore. I spent many of my days creating research projects that I would present to my class during our weekly presentations. These presentations allowed students not only to step out of their shells by discussing topics they were passionate about but also taught them to respect their peers and learn from one another. Transitioning to public high school, I was surprised to see that not every student enjoyed school the way I did. Initially, I was scared because I assumed my peers' dislike for school meant that public school was really difficult. But as I progressed and continued to earn all A's, I realized it wasn't the classwork that my peers found challenging—it was how to approach it. In their public school environment, my classmates never learned how to learn in a way that suited them. They never got to explore their learning patterns, as every assignment was expected to be completed in the same manner. This lack of understanding left them out of touch with themselves and how they best function. In my day-to-day life, I continue to practice the mindfulness my Montessori education instilled in me. Being independent during my formative years gave me the self-awareness I needed as I entered high school, and it will continue to guide me as I move into college. In conclusion, my academic success is not solely a result of intelligence but rather the product of a strong foundation in independent learning. The Montessori method taught me to understand and embrace my unique way of learning, and this has been a crucial factor in my ability to thrive in various educational settings. As I progress through college, I will carry with me the lessons of independence, self-awareness, and adaptability.

It can be easily assumed that someone who reads for pleasure does not learn from what they read. Reading books of fiction, ones with magic systems and heroic characters can hold more value than that of entertainment. Some may be snobby and claim that only non-fiction books hold true life lessons, this however is not what I have observed. Stories that aren't true are sometimes more honest than those which are fully truthful. Authors are allowed to be fully truthful while hiding behind the curtain of fiction. Finding a fictional character relatable has taught me more about myself than a self help book ever could. The life lessons I have learned throughout my three years in college can all be attributed to a book I read at that time. The power fiction has had on my personal growth is not as linear as I would like to present it as, but I think that's the beauty of it as personal growth is never linear anyways. Throughout different periods of chaos and control my life has been complimented by novels. the most notable being my life path. When I was struggling to navigate who I wanted to be in sophomore year of high school I read the Midnight Library by Matt Haig to help me better understand how to navigate my decisions. When the main character Nora is able to look through books which each hold a different life she could have lived she is overwhelmed and doesn't understand what the "right" life is. once I read the quote "you don't have to understand life, you just have to live it." I felt like a weight was lifted off my shoulders and suddenly I wasn't so scared about my future. Since then books have kept me focused on the goal ahead. Between my two jobs, two schools, and two sports I have always had a focus on what I wanted. To tell stories that could comfort and teach others the way I was impacted by books. As an animation major I have learned how to tell a narrative through visuals. Fiction has a unique ability to convey complex emotions and situations that non-fiction often struggles to capture. Malibu rising by Taylor Jenkins Reed depicts the complex forms and ways addiction can affect generations past just yourself. Through its atmospheric environment of Malibu contrasted with its grounded characters It reinforced the idea that storytelling is not just about entertainment but about exploring the depths of human experience. Through these fictional worlds, I've learned to embrace the uncertainties of life. Each character's journey has offered me new perspectives, whether it's about dealing with loss, making difficult decisions, or simply finding joy in the small moments. Fiction has taught me that it's okay not to have everything figured out, and that sometimes, the best way to learn is by immersing oneself in the stories of others. The lessons I’ve learned from fiction have been invaluable. They’ve shaped my approach to life, provided comfort in times of distress, and helped me focus on my goals. While some may dismiss fiction as mere escapism, I’ve found that it can be a powerful tool for personal growth. As I continue my journey through my last year of high school and into college, I carry with me the lessons I’ve learned from these stories, knowing that they will continue to guide and inspire me. Fiction may not be real, but the impact it has on our lives certainly is.

Throughout my high school career, I have embraced opportunities to lead in collaborative environments, finding fulfillment in uplifting others both in my sport and my classes. My leadership journey began with cheerleading, where I served as captain of the team. As a captain and a base, my primary role was to support others and keep them safe. While the physical demands of basing are significant, the true challenge lies in the mental responsibility of knowing that I am the one standing between my flyer and potential injury. This weight of responsibility is something I have learned to carry with pride, understanding that leadership is about being the person others can depend on, especially in high-pressure situations. Being a leader on the cheer team taught me lessons in trust, communication, and resilience. My teammates looked to me not only for guidance during routines but also for emotional support amidst challenges. I learned to listen actively, to encourage others when they doubted themselves, and to make decisions that prioritized the well-being of the entire team. These experiences have shaped my understanding of what it means to be a leader: someone who empowers others to succeed and who can be relied upon to navigate both triumphs and setbacks. In my junior year of high school, I also participated in the Animation program at Eastern Washington University. Although animation and cheerleading may seem worlds apart, they share a common thread: the need for effective teamwork. In animation, as in cheerleading, success depends on the ability to collaborate with people who bring diverse strengths and perspectives to the table. My experience as a cheer captain has prepared me to lead in any setting by making sure every team member feels valued and heard. Looking ahead to my future, my dream is to work at Disney Animation Studios. There, I hope to continue being a supportive and uplifting force who listens to and considers others’ ideas. Just as my teammates trusted me with their safety on the mat, I aim to be someone my colleagues can trust with their creativity and vision. The positivity, reliability, and commitment to excellence that cheerleading has instilled in me are qualities I will carry into my professional life, enabling me to lead with integrity and inspire those around me. In both cheerleading and animation, leadership is about more than just guiding others—it’s about creating an environment where everyone can thrive. The collaborative spirit and strong sense of responsibility that I’ve developed in high school will be the foundation of my approach to leadership, ensuring that I am not just a teammate but a leader who others can rely on.

Throughout my high school career, I have thrived in collaborative environments, finding strength in uplifting others both in my sport and my classes. As a cheerleader, my role as a base has been to support others and keep them safe. While basing is physically demanding, the most challenging aspect isn’t the lifting itself but the mental weight of knowing that I am the one standing between my flyer and potential injury. This sense of responsibility is something I carry with me and will continue to bring into my future work environments. In my junior year of high school, I entered the Animation program at Eastern Washington University. Though animation and cheerleading have virtually nothing in common, they both involve people with different strengths and weaknesses working together to achieve a common goal. In cheerleading, I have learned the importance of reliability and trust, qualities that are just as crucial in a collaborative creative environment like animation. My dream job is to work at Disney Animation Studios, where I hope to continue being a supportive and uplifting force who listens to and considers others’ ideas. I aim to be someone my colleagues can trust with their creativity and plans, just as my teammates trust me with their safety on the mat. The positivity and reliability that cheerleading has instilled in me are qualities I will carry with me into the workforce, enabling me to contribute effectively to any team and helping us achieve our shared goals. In both cheerleading and animation, success is about more than just individual talent; it’s about how well you can work with others to bring out the best in everyone. The collaborative spirit I’ve developed in high school will be a cornerstone of my approach in my future career, ensuring that I am not just a teammate but a leader who others can rely on.

Throughout the short but ongoing history of BookTok, a multitude of books have been recommended, shaping the reading habits of many, including my own. My ideal bookshelf would feature a variety of genres promoted by this platform, as my personal reading journey began with three books introduced to me through BookTok, and it has grown from there. First, there’s the BookTok classic responsible for much of BookToks popularity. It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover. This romance novel tackles dark subjects and takes readers through numerous twists and turns. To balance the emotional impact of that book, I was then recommended The Spanish Love Deception by Elena Armas. Set in a vacation backdrop with a fake dating plot and quirky characters, this lighthearted read put me in a better mood and prepared me for something more serious. That’s when I was introduced to A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson. The protagonist, Pip, with her wit and determination, kept me hooked through every twist and turn the story had to offer. Once I read those three, my bookshelf began to grow rapidly. Although I don’t own every book I’ve been recommended and read (because I simply couldn’t afford them all), I know exactly what my ideal bookshelf would look like. Lighter reads would include authors like Sarah Adams, Lynn Painter, and Ali Hazelwood, who are known for their engaging rom-coms. Digging a little deeper, you’d find works by Emily Henry and Taylor Jenkins Reid—authors that make you sit back and think "This book understands me." But my bookshelf wouldn’t be complete without some action. And by action I dont mean the kind you rate with chili peppers from 1-5. I mean the fight sequences and intricate world-building found in dystopian novels. Series like The Hunger Games, Legend, Shatter Me, and Red Queen come to mind due to their nonstop action and captivating romance subplots. If that isn’t complex enough, the fantasy side of BookTok has offerings from authors like Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Ross, who craft worlds where courts separate races, and lovers communicate through magical typewriters amidst war. In essence, my ideal bookshelf would reflect the impact of BookTok on my reading journey. From the emotionally charged narratives of Emily Henry to the lighthearted escapism offered by Elena Armas, and the thrilling mysteries crafted by Holly Jackson, this bookshelf would showcase a diverse range of genres and stories that balance romance, action, and fantasy. BookTok has not only shaped my reading preferences but has also created a community where readers can share stories that make us feel understood, challenged, and inspired. Though TikTok as an app may carry some stigma, BookTok is proof that social media has the power to revive forgotten hobbies like reading and connect us all through the love of books.